Just five miles west of Heathrow, Windsor Great Park is a stunning expanse of rolling parkland, ancient woodlands and scenic gardens, offering visitors a perfect escape into nature. Once a royal hunting ground, the 4,800-acre park is home to iconic landmarks and attractions like the Long Walk, Virginia Water and Savill Garden.
- Quick & easy to reach from Heathrow: ideal for travellers with a spare half-day.
- Diverse walking trails: from short, relaxing strolls to longer hikes with historic landmarks.
- Paths are well-maintained and signposted.
- Great food and drink options: from cafés to cosy pubs and fine dining.
- A peaceful escape from city life: stunning nature, royal history and quiet open spaces.
Suggested itinerary
Start your visit at Savill Garden, an ornamental garden featuring seasonal blooms, rare plants and serene water features. Parking here. There’s also a café, Savill Garden Kitchen, where you can grab a bite to eat. Parking is chargeable, but the fee is waived if you visit either Savill Garden or Adventure Play. Entry fees apply and while advance booking is mandatory for Adventure Play, it is also highly recommended for Savill Garden to ensure availability.
Access by public transport is limited. An Uber from Heathrow costs from approximately £25.
From here, there are various walks to enjoy. Walking all the way to Windsor Castle would take around two hours via The Long Walk. A number of itineraries and maps can be found on the park website Windsor walks.
The Bailiwick Free House
After exploring Savill Garden and enjoying a scenic walk, The Bailiwick is an excellent choice for a well-earned meal. Dogs are welcome! This relaxed, Michelin recommended pub prides itself on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create refined yet hearty dishes. Nestled on the edge of Windsor Great Park, it offers a cosy atmosphere perfect for relaxing after your walk. Booking is highly recommended. Parking near the pub is limited and charged by the local authority, but it’s only a 15-minute walk away.
If The Bailiwick is fully booked or unavailable, The Fox and Hounds provides a good alternative. Located near Bishop’s Gate, this stylish pub serves high quality food with a welcoming ambience, making it another option to round off your visit.
Finally, paths are well maintained so you should be able to avoid muddy shoes!